Roll out a warm welcome

With the holidays almost here, chances are you may welcome house guests. Whether it's a sofa bed in the living room, or a dedicated guest room, ensure maximum comfort and a warm welcome.

Many households do not have the luxury of a dedicated guest room.

But what is on the rise is the spare room that serves multiple functions such as an office/guest room.

What works best in these dual-purpose rooms is forethought and clever planning.

Have a quality sofa in the office that doubles as a spare bed, complete with bedside tables.

If you are fortunate enough to have a dedicated spare room for guests, try to choose a queen bed over a single.

For single guests it is the ultimate comfort, and for couples or young children the bed is large enough to share.

Storage is a factor for guests. If visitors travel, chances are they will arrive with plenty of luggage.

Check the bedding is appropriate for the time of year.

Fans or air-conditioning need to be available in the summer months and heaters and electric blankets in the cooler months. The final touches, such as reading lamps, plus quality bed linen, pillows and cushions, fresh towels and a vase of fragrant fresh flowers will go a long way to ensure guests feel welcome.